The plaza for the Link Light Rail Station located on Beacon Hill has offered an opportunity for the creation of a public space that celebrates the long-standing diverse community at this cultural crossroads. It is with this in mind that artist Carl Smool has developed an installation of graphic and sculptural elements that both enhance the space and derive their inspiration from the many directions of Beacon Hill’s cultural compass. The proximity to the International District has long made it a home for many people of Asian descent. The neighboring El Centro de la Raza has, since 1972, been a center for Latin American culture for the City of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Along with neighboring communities to the east and south, it is part of Seattle’s most international and culturally diverse area. Over the years, Beacon Hill has continued to draw many new immigrants, from across the globe. With this in mind, as we launch into a new era of transportation in Seattle, Carl has looked to find a common thread that might link these communities and inspire a space that celebrates a gathering of cultures.
The common thread that inspires this project is found in traditional textiles. The rich patterns of woven, printed, dyed, painted, assembled, beaded and embroidered textiles provide both an original expression of identity, and a familiar commonality that has long been a cultural dialog between peoples. Textiles have both a domestic, everyday use and play an important roll in ceremonies and celebrations. Derived from the natural world using plant and animal fibers artisans everywhere found ways to weave and or assemble them into useful cloth. Through constant repetition, patterns and refinement developed; through travel and trade these threads reached far and wide.
